The morning after receiving the blackmail letter, I made my way to the section of the project site where Gabriel typically observed operations from a distance. He was standing under a large tree that provided shade from the increasingly intense Brazilian sun, watching his workforce conduct precision excavation at one of the major network hub sites.
He saw me approaching and straightened slightly, his body language shifting from relaxed observation to attentive interest. My Psychological Insight suggested he had been expecting this conversation, though he was trying not to appear too eager about the potential outcome.
"I accept your deal," I said without preamble once I was close enough for private conversation.
Gabriel's expression remained carefully neutral, though I caught the slight tightening around his eyes that indicated satisfaction. "That's good to hear. When do we begin the consultation?"